By: Bayero Ade
The Inspector General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, has directed the Commissioners of Police in Anambra State and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) to investigate the recent stampedes that occurred during palliative distribution in Maitama, Abuja, and Okija, Anambra State.
Speaking through the Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Muyiwa Adejobi, the IGP disclosed that organizers of the palliative distributions in Abuja, Anambra, and a similar event in Ibadan, Oyo State, failed to seek police protection or notify the state commands about their plans.
Statement from the Force
In a statement titled “IGP Warns Against Unauthorised Distribution of Palliatives and Funfairs”, the IGP expressed grave concern over the uncoordinated distribution of relief items, especially during the festive season.
“This trend is deeply troubling and calls for urgent measures to safeguard the lives of vulnerable citizens, particularly the youth and elderly,” the statement read.
The IGP highlighted the need for a more structured approach to aid distribution to prevent tragedies like those recently witnessed.
Series of Tragic Incidents
Ibadan Funfair Tragedy
On December 18, 2024, a children’s funfair in Ibadan turned tragic when a stampede led to the deaths of 35 children, with many others critically injured. The incident sparked widespread condemnation, with Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde vowing to hold the organizers accountable.
Abuja Stampede
On December 21, 2024, another tragedy struck at the Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Maitama, Abuja, where 10 people lost their lives, and several others were injured during a palliative distribution event.
Anambra Stampede
The same day, in Okija, Ihiala Local Government Area of Anambra State, a palliative distribution organized by the Obijackson Foundation led to another stampede. Three people were confirmed dead, and many others were hospitalized.
Public Safety Concerns
The IGP emphasized the dangers of uncoordinated distribution efforts, noting the risks of chaos, stampedes, and injuries. He warned that negligence by organizers constitutes a criminal offense under Nigerian law.
“Groups and organizers must involve security agencies in planning such events,” the statement noted. “Failure to do so will not be tolerated.”
Collaborative Solutions
The IGP called on government officials, community leaders, and NGOs to develop a more organized framework for aid distribution. He also urged citizens to exercise caution when attending such events to avoid unnecessary risks.
Investigations Underway
The IGP has ordered thorough investigations into the incidents in Abuja and Anambra to determine accountability and ensure legal actions where necessary.
Meanwhile, the police have extended condolences to the families of the deceased and wished the injured a swift recovery.
“The Nigeria Police Force remains committed to preventing such tragedies in the future and ensuring the safety of all citizens during aid distribution activities,” the statement concluded.
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